1997 update of recommendations for the use of tumor markers in breast and colorectal cancer. Adopted on November 7, 1997 by the American Society of Clinical Oncology.
OBJECTIVE
The primary objective was to update the 1996 clinical practice guidelines for the use of tumor marker tests in the prevention, screening, treatment, and surveillance of breast and colorectal cancers. These guidelines are intended for use in the care of patients outside of clinical trials.


METHODS
Six tumor markers for colorectal cancer and eight for breast cancer were considered. They could be recommended or not for routine use or for special circumstances. In addition to carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and cancer antigen (CA) 15-3, CA 27.29 also was considered in regard to circulatory tumor markers for breast cancer.


RESULTS
In general, the significant health outcomes identified for use in making clinical practice guidelines (overall survival, disease-free survival, quality of life, lesser toxicity, and cost effectiveness) were used.


METHODS
A computerized literature search from 1994 to July 1997 was performed.


METHODS
The same values for Use, Utility, and Levels of Evidence were used by the Committee.


RESULTS
The same benefit, harms, and costs were used.


CONCLUSIONS
No changes in any guidelines were recommended (see text).


RESULTS
External review by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Health Services Research Committee and by ASCO Board of Directors.


BACKGROUND
American Society of Clinical Oncology.
D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor / Q000032:analysis*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans
D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor